Jordanian Businessmen Association (JBA) President Ayman Alawneh met with UAE Ambassador to Jordan Sultan Al Shamsi on 19 October 2026. The meeting took place to discuss potential avenues for expanded economic cooperation between the two nations. Both representatives reviewed existing bilateral ties and evaluated mechanisms to increase investment activity. The talks focused on identifying specific sectors where partnerships between Jordanian and Emirati businesses can be strengthened. This discussion follows ongoing efforts to align private sector interests in Amman and the UAE. Both parties examined current frameworks for trade and potential growth opportunities to enhance the economic relationship. Following the meeting, the officials signaled a shared interest in identifying new projects for future collaboration.
The dialogue between Ayman Alawneh and Sultan Al Shamsi showed the importance of private sector engagement in driving economic growth. By fostering direct communication between the Jordanian Businessmen Association (JBA) and Emirati counterparts, both officials aim to streamline the process for new capital deployment. The meeting served as a platform to address logistical considerations and regulatory frameworks that impact the ease of doing business for investors from both countries. Both representatives emphasized that a coordinated approach would maximize the impact of future joint ventures.
Strategic Sectors for Investment
Investment discussions between Ayman Alawneh and Sultan Al Shamsi centered on prospects within energy, mining, industry, and tourism. These four sectors represent the primary areas identified for potential partnerships between Jordanian and Emirati businesses. The discussions focused on investment opportunities in energy, mining, industry, and tourism specifically to leverage the comparative advantages of both economies. Both representatives evaluated how private sector entities might increase activity across these fields to strengthen bilateral economic ties. By targeting these specific sectors, the officials intend to create a more strong framework for sustainable economic growth and long-term partnership.
Existing UAE investments in Jordan provide a foundation for these new initiatives. Existing UAE investments in Jordan include the Aqaba Port railway project. This project remains a key example of current infrastructure cooperation between the two nations. This project serves as a reference point for officials as they assess the performance and logistical requirements of large-scale capital deployment in the region. The success of such infrastructure projects provides a baseline for evaluating the feasibility of future investments in the energy and industrial sectors.
The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development maintains an active role in financing critical infrastructure and social services in Jordan. The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development supports projects in Jordan related to education, energy, and water. Support from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development currently targets projects related to education, energy, and water. These sectors align with the broader objectives of the economic cooperation talks held on 19 October 2026. Officials examined how these ongoing development contributions influence the broader trade environment and identified ways to build upon these established institutional links. By integrating these development efforts with new private sector initiatives, the officials seek to create a full strategy for economic integration. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue the dialogue to ensure that these identified sectors receive the necessary attention and support to thrive in the coming years.